Hadith #8868

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "القنية ينبوع الأحزان" which translates to

Acquisitions are a spring of sorrows.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the potential negative consequences of materialistic pursuits and the accumulation of worldly possessions.

The word (al-qunya) "القنية" refers to acquisitions or possessions, while (yunbu') "ينبوع" means a spring or source, and (al-ahzan) "الأحزان" means sorrows. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is drawing our attention to the fact that our attachment to material possessions can lead to sorrow and distress.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is in line with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20) that worldly possessions and wealth are temporary and fleeting:

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Takathur (102:1-2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the distractions of worldly pursuits:

Competition in [worldly] increase diverts you. Until you visit the graveyards.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that our focus should not solely be on acquiring material possessions. While it is not inherently wrong to have possessions, it is important to maintain a balanced perspective and not let our attachment to them consume us.

When we become overly attached to material possessions, we may experience various negative consequences. For example, the pursuit of wealth can lead to greed, selfishness, and a disregard for the needs of others. This can result in strained relationships, isolation, and a lack of contentment.

Additionally, the accumulation of possessions can create a false sense of security and happiness. We may mistakenly believe that our happiness and well-being are dependent on the abundance of our possessions. However, true happiness and contentment come from spiritual fulfillment, gratitude, and a connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth and connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over the pursuit of worldly possessions. By focusing on developing our character, seeking knowledge, and performing good deeds, we can find true fulfillment and inner peace.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Acquisitions are a spring of sorrows

serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth and not become overly attached to material possessions. By understanding the temporary nature of worldly wealth and focusing on our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can find true happiness and contentment. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to seek what truly matters in this life and the Hereafter.